SPRINGFIELD, MA. August 18, 2010. The new Springfield Public School Department's offices on Main Street in the center of downtown were the venue as Mr. Luciano Valles, Supervisor of Speech-Language-Hearing-Vision, was presented the Patriot Award.  

Mr. Valles was nominated for this honor by employee Rachel Garcia-Gosselin, who is also a Technical Sergeant (TSgt) in the US Air Force Reserve. The importance the US Air Force Reserve places on the civilian employers of its "citizen Soldiers" was evident with Chief Master Sergeant David Carbin's attendance at this event. The Chief is Rachel's military supervisor.  

Upon receiving this recognition, Mr. Valles expressed his strong support of what Rachel, and all members of our military forces, is doing for our Nation. He further stated that he is honored to be able to help her in her dual careers.  

The Springfield Public School District is composed of 51 campuses, more than 25, 000 students and nearly 5,000 employees.  

 
Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR) is a Department of Defense agency established in 1972. The mission of ESGR is to gain and maintain employer support for Guard and Reserve service by recognizing outstanding support, increasing awareness of the USERRA law of 1994 and resolving conflicts through mediation. The MA Field Office has more than 40 volunteers dedicated to helping every "Citizen Soldier". On hand representing MAESGR was Staff Member Bill Hebert.  

   

       

Left to Right: Mr. Luciano Valles, TSgt Rachel Garcia-Gosselin and Chief Master Sergeant David Carbin

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If you would like nominate your Employer for an award, call the MA Committee for ESGR at 508-233-7249 or go to www.esgr.mil.